Pros

Outstanding fuel economy for its size

Huge cargo and passenger space

High-end tech and safety features

Cons

No AWD option

Slower than V6 rivals

Heavy second-row seat removal

Kia Carnival Hybrid 2025

Starting MSRP*

$40,500

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Our Verdict

The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid blends SUV style with minivan space and strong fuel efficiency, though it lacks all-wheel drive and isn’t especially sporty to drive.

Best For

Large familiesroad trippersfuel-conscious drivers

Not Ideal For

Performance seekerssnow-belt drivers needing AWD

Pros

Outstanding fuel economy for its size

Huge cargo and passenger space

High-end tech and safety features

Cons

No AWD option

Slower than V6 rivals

Heavy second-row seat removal

Car Specifications

Select your car trims and compare them instantly

Trim
Engine Type
Horsepower
MPG (City/Hwy)
Seating
Cargo Space
Transmission
MSRP
Car Type

About The Carnival Hybrid 2025

The Kia Carnival Hybrid is the brand’s first electrified minivan, built for families who want space, comfort, and modern tech while still getting great fuel efficiency. With SUV-inspired styling, seating for up to eight, and an impressive 33 mpg combined, it’s made for everything from daily drop-offs to road trips.

Smart features like VIP lounge seats, a rear intercom, and a dual-display cockpit make life easier, while its premium feel and practicality make it a top choice for eco-conscious parents who need room to move.

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What It Costs to Drive

The 2025 Kia Carnival's annual ownership costs:

Yearly

Monthly

Avg. Yearly Cost

$3,000–$3,500

Fuel

$1,275

Insurance

$1,500–$1,800

Maintenance

$400–$500

Assumptions: Based on average U.S. driver (12,000 miles/year, fuel price ~$3.75/gal, good driving record).

Trims, Features & Pricing

LXS

Well-Equipped Starter
$40,800

The base LXS comes packed with family essentials like seating for eight, tri-zone climate, power sliding doors, and a 12.3" infotainment touchscreen. It also includes wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, all key safety tech, and Kia’s new hybrid system. Great for value-minded buyers needing fuel economy, practicality, and standard driver aids.

EX

Best Value
$43,000

The EX adds heated power front seats, SynTex leatherette, sunshades, smart power liftgate, and wireless phone charging. It’s the sweet spot—adding comfort and convenience without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for families who want a few luxuries and long-term savings without jumping to the pricier trims.

SX

High-Tech Luxury
$47,900

The SX enhances the experience with dual sunroofs, ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, and advanced driver aids like Blind-Spot View Monitor and a 360° camera. Rear entertainment becomes optional. Ideal for tech-loving parents and long-trip warriors who want high-end comfort and safety features.

SX Prestige

First-Class Cabin
$52,900

This top trim dials up luxury with VIP lounge seats (heated/ventilated with leg rests), leather upholstery, head-up display, and a 12-speaker Bose system. It trades one seat for indulgence, making it best for families who prize comfort and upscale features over max seating capacity.

Recommended Trim by AutosMarket

EX Trim Recommended

Best price-to-feature ratio for families
Includes wireless charging, smart liftgate, heated seats
Keeps 8-passenger layout for flexibility
Same hybrid powertrain and full safety suite as higher trims
Highest projected resale value in the lineup

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A Review From Every Angle

GOOD

4.5/5

1. Exterior

4.5 / 5.0

Stylish minivan with SUV feel

The Carnival Hybrid disguises its minivan DNA with SUV-like cues: bold grille, vertical LEDs, and sculpted lines. Newly updated lights and wheels add flair.

Sliding doors blend into the sleek body
19" wheels and Dark Edition package available
Multiple vibrant color choices
Power liftgate standard on EX+
Feels upscale and modern curbside

2. Interior

4 / 5.0

Massive cabin with upscale tech touches

Inside, it’s all about space and comfort. With up to 145 cu ft of room, it’s best-in-class.

Available VIP Lounge seats pamper rear passengers
Dual 12.3" displays offer a futuristic dash
Slide-Flex second row (EX+) adds versatility
Cabin camera, intercom, and sunshades enhance family use
Controls take some time to learn

3. Safety

4.5 / 5.0

Top-tier safety standard at every trim

Kia loads the Carnival Hybrid with its full ADAS suite right from the base model.

Standard: Auto braking, lane assist, blind-spot monitoring
Highway Driving Assist for semi-autonomous highway cruising
Optional: 360° camera, blind-spot view monitor
Rear Occupant Alert standard
5-star NHTSA rating, strong IIHS scores

4. Fuel Economy

4.5 / 5.0

Exceptional efficiency for an 8-seater

The Carnival Hybrid earns 33 mpg combined, rivaling small SUVs in real-world savings.

34 city / 31 highway mpg
Estimated 600+ mile range
Uses regular fuel, no plug-in needed
Saves ~$600/year vs. V6 rivals
Slightly lower MPG than Sienna

5. Tech & Infotainment

5 / 5.0

Packed with family-first smart features

From dual 12.3" screens to rear intercom, the Carnival’s tech is family-focused and functional.

Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto standard
Passenger View camera with night vision
Optional rear entertainment and Bose audio
Surround-view monitor boosts ease of parking
Over-the-air updates keep it current

6. Performance & Handling

3.5 / 5.0

Smooth, calm ride—not sporty

The hybrid system offers decent power but emphasizes comfort over thrill.

0–60 in ~7.9 seconds
Electric torque helps with city driving
Stable and soft on the highway
Body roll in sharp corners
Slight engine buzz under hard throttle

What's New From Last Year?

All-new hybrid powertrain (242 hp, 33 mpg) now available
Updated front/rear styling with SUV-inspired LED lighting
Dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays with new infotainment UI
Enhanced ADAS safety tech now standard across all trims
Optional rear entertainment system and Cabin Camera
VIP Lounge seating added to SX Prestige

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Cars Similar To The 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid

The Kia Carnival Hybrid’s key competitors include the Toyota Sienna and Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. Here’s how they stack up.


Feature	2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid	2025 Toyota Sienna	2025 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
Performance	Smooth, fuel-efficient hybrid; FWD only	Slightly better MPG; standard hybrid; AWD available	Plug-in hybrid; EV mode available; pricier upfront
Tech & Interior	Dual 12.3" displays; rear intercom; VIP seats	Simplified layout; functional tech	FamCAM, Stow ’n Go seats; older infotainment
Practicality	8-passenger seating; 145.1 cu ft cargo	Also seats 8; 101 cu ft cargo (all seats)	Seats 7; Stowable seats; smaller EV-only range
Comfort & Space	Upscale SUV-style cabin; lounge seating option	Spacious but less premium feel	Comfortable ride; versatile layout
Who’s it for?	Families wanting hybrid MPG + luxury features	AWD seekers; MPG-focused buyers	Short-trip drivers who can charge frequently
Best Choice For	Hybrid fuel savings Upscale tech Space + style	MPG + AWD Family practicality	EV mode Seat flexibility Short-distance economy

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Carnival Hybrid have all-wheel drive?

No, it’s front-wheel drive only. For AWD, consider the Toyota Sienna.

Do I need to charge the Carnival Hybrid?

Nope! It’s a self-charging hybrid—just fuel up and drive.

What’s the real-world MPG?

Around 32–34 mpg depending on driving style and load.

How quick is it?

It does 0–60 in about 7.9 seconds—adequate for daily use.

Can adults sit in all three rows?

Yes! It’s one of the most spacious minivans for passengers.

Are the second-row seats removable?

Yes, but they’re heavy and can be tough to lift out.

How safe is the Carnival Hybrid?

Very safe—5-star NHTSA rating and full safety suite standard.